Post-intensive Care Syndrome (PICS): an American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Critical Care Committee Consensus Guideline – Defining, Recognizing, and Managing PICS Associated Physical Impairment, Cognitive Dysfunction, and Thromboinflammatory Dysregulation

Post-intensive care syndrome, often called PICS, refers to a set of impairments that can affect a person’s body, mind, or emotions after they leave the intensive care unit (ICU). These issues may include new or worsening physical limitations, difficulties with memory or cognition, and mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression. It is important to recognize PICS because a patient’s recovery and quality of life can be significantly impacted after discharge from the ICU. The Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) recommends that healthcare providers start screening for PICS within 2–4 weeks after a patient leaves the ICU, with further evaluations at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. 1 This recommended timeline ensures that issues are identified and addressed early.